Unfortunately, most of us can’t wear our sneakers all day, every day.  Whether you wear them for work or play or everyday use, boots can be a necessary footwear option.  Whether you are pounding your feet on a hard surface all day for work or hiking up a rocky mountain, swapping out the factory footbed with a quality insole may help you find the extra comfort and support you need to go hard and long in your boots.   If you are experiencing pain or discomfort while wearing boots, it might be best to take a look at replacing the insert with something more supportive and comfortable.  As runners, it’s our duty to take care of our feet, not just while we run, but for the rest of the day as well.

Last Updated: August 11, 2017

By Brian Price:

We’ve made a few adjustments to this buying guide. One that is most noteable is the addition of a new product, which we recently tested. 

The Shoe Bubble, from SOUL Insole, has found its way to toward the top of our list. Take a look at the short review, as well as the additional information, which we have also come up with, regarding insoles in general.

• SOUL Insole
• 4.9 out of 5
  Our rating
• Versatile design
• Price: See Here

• Superfeet Premium Green Insoles
• 5 out of 5
  Our rating
• High-arched Insole
• Price: See Here

• Spenco Polysorb Heavy Duty Insoles
• 4.5 out of 5
  Our rating
• All Day Support
• Price: See Here

10 Best Boot Inserts & Insoles

SOUL Insole

We tried this one out for running, but its applications are fairly wide, when it comes to what kind of footwear you decide to use them with. The Shoe Bubble from SOUL Insole really is a solid enough pick to make #2 on this list. Not a full length replacement but really more of an "arch booster", as the brand refers to it.

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With this particular design, the concern of losing space in the forefoot, or creating discomfort in the heel, if the fit is not absolutely perfect is gone, as these only fill the midfoot section of the footwear.

Additionally, they can also be used in conjunction with the original insoles of the shoe, if it is removable, by simply placing the Shoe Bubble underneath it. There is a sticky surface to one side, keeping it square in place all day long.

Another great thing about this one, is the fact that is is simple to swap to other footwear, as it's not a full length, eliminating the need to trim and adjust to fit.

Pros

Multi-use design

Fairly priced for the value offered

Easy to install and keep clean

Can easily be used in multiple shoes

Cons

Not full length

Superfeet Premium Green

Get out your hiking boots. The most popular insole of the brand, the Superfeet Premium Green is our #1 pick for insoles for boots. Made for those who need maximum arch support, these insoles are ready to handle high volume usage.

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It features a wide, deep heel cup that aids in natural shock absorption. The closed-cell foam provides cushioning and comfort. The insoles itself provides structure to shoes and fits in most footwear, including boots, casual shoes and athletic shoes.

Like the Superfeet Orange, these insoles are free of latex, formaldehyde, nickel sulfate and are vegan.

Cost
Like the Superfeet Orange, Superfeet does not make “cheap” insoles in any sense of the word. You will pay for what you get and the cost, though not small, is a well worth the investment for your feet.

Pros

• Organic, all natural
• Great support for high arches
• Relieves common foot pain such as plantar fasciitis and arch pain
• Great for those on their feet all day
• Short break in period

Cons

• Not for people whom need minimal arch support.

Spenco Polysorb Heavy Duty

When they say “heavy duty”, they aren’t kidding. These flexible, but durable insoles provide some serious comfort for all day support and are specifically designed for work shoes and work boots.

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The 4 way stretch fabric is anti microbial and anti blister, keeping your feet dry and cool. The foam is lightweight and aids in arch and heel support.

The SpenCore ® heel strike pad has extra cushioning for heavy impact and maximum shock absorption. The SpenCore® located at the front of the insole not only provides cushioning, but energy return.

Cost
A steal. Low price and high quality, especially considering the miles and impact you’ll be able to put on them.

Pros

• Low price
• Excellent comfort for high volume usage
• Specially designed for work shoes and boots

Cons

• Some felt the foam was too thick.

Sof Sole Airr Orthotic Performance

It comes as no surprise that the cushion in the Sof Sole Airr Orthotics is, you guessed it, air. The SKYDEX® air capsules located in the heel, convert impact into energy, while the polymer gel in the forefoot provides maximum shock absorption.

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Made for those with low to neutral arches, the arch and heel are supported by a reinforced stability plate. The insole itself enhances motion control and support.

The top fabric is made out of the moisture wicking COOLMAX®, providing dry and blister free feet.

Cost
Another affordable insole from a brand that knows a thing or two about good insoles.

Pros

• Good arch support

• High quality, long lasting

• Good for athletic shoes as well

Cons

• Some felt they were a little too thick

Powerstep Pinnacle

Powerstep was founded by a podiatrist, foot surgeon and runner, so needless to say, the brand knows a thing or two not just about comfort and support, but runner’s feet. The Powerstep Pinnacle is a versatile insert that provides some serious support and comfort, especially for those suffering from plantar fasciitis, arch pain, metatarsal pain, and other foot issues.

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The semi-rigid shell and deep heel cradle support and stabilize your foot, especially during high impact situations. The Variable Cushioning Technology or VCT ® is a double layer of foam cushioning that sits on top of a sturdy EVA foam base that makes for one comfortable, yet durable base.

The top layer is anti-microbial and reduces friction that can cause blisters and excessive heat. These insoles are best used in tight fitting shoes that have limited space.

Cost
The Powerstep Pinnacle is not the cheapest, but certainly not the most expensive. A good quality, moderately priced insole.

Pros

• Aids in plantar fasciitis, heel pain and other foot problems

• No trimming required when moving insoles to different shoes

• Durable

Cons

• Some said they were a little too thick for some shoes.

Superfeet Premium Orange

This popular insole brand is known for their quality insoles that provide comfort and support. These are no different.

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The Superfeet Premium Orange insoles are suitable for medium to high volume shoes and boots that have removable insoles. They provide full-length foam for responsiveness and high impact support.

The deep heel cup and biomechanical shape work together to provide support and comfort for your foot. As an added bonus, these insoles are free of latex, formaldehyde, nickel sulfate and are vegan.

Cost
These insoles will run you a little bit more than the others.

Pros

• Great arch support, especially for those with higher arches
• Great support and comfort for work shoes and boots
• Works as well as custom inserts

Cons

• Not suitable for those with flat feet

Footminders Comfort Arch Support

The ironic name rings true. Footminders has your feet in mind. Footminders Comfort Orthotic insoles offer great support and comfort for shoes that are going to experience high impact and high volume.

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The deep heel cup and heel pad are made of a shock absorbing material called Durapontex, which provides ankle stability and support. It also features a high arch support and a raised metatarsal support to provide relief from foot pain.

The top layer absorbs moisture to keep feet cool and dry. The double layer cushioning provides overall comfort, especially those who need all day support.

Cost
The Footminder Comfort Orthotic insoles are a good choice for a moderately priced insole.

Pros

• Great comfort and support for heavy impact use
• Relieves foot and knee pains due to plantar fasciitis and other foot and leg problems
• Great arch support

Cons

• Some felt it lacked enough cushioning

New Balance IUAS3810

New Balance may be known for their running shoes, but their insoles work great in a variety shoes, including boots. These unisex insoles have maximum cushioning to make a pair of boots feel like clouds.

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Their Abzorbz ® cushioning located at the forefoot and heel of the insoles provides maximum shock absorption as well as comfort. The cushioning also aids with arch support, helping prevent and aid people who are experiencing arch problems.

These insoles are great for shoes and boots with removable footbeds. If you spend a lot of time on your feet and are looking for comfort and support, check out these insoles.

Cost
These affordable insoles won’t break the bank. They are high quality, so you won’t need to worry about replacing them any time soon.

Pros

• Comfortable

• Great for those on their feet for prolonged periods of time

• Helps address foot issues such as plantar fasciitis

Cons

• The arch support was a tad too much for some people.  More suitable for those with high arches

Dr. Scholl’s Gel Work

Who couldn’t go for a regular foot massage? Well, if a daily foot massage isn’t in your budget, perhaps it’s time to check out Dr. Scholl’s Massaging Gel Work insoles. They were made specifically for those who were pounding on hard service all day, everyday.

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These durable insoles are made for high volume usage. The gel “waves” provide cushioning, acting like tiny springs under your feet.

The insole molds to the shape of your foot, but has cooling vents to keep your feet cool and dry.

Cost
Very low price for some serious cushioning and comfort.

Pros

• Low price
• Gel cushioning “waves” provide maximum comfort
• Good arch support

Cons

• Some people said that the insoles didn’t work well for those with a larger shoe sizes.

ProFoot Dura-Sole

To say the PROFOOT Dura-Soles insoles are durable would be an understatement. These USA-made insoles are so durable that they may even outlast your boots.

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The top cloth is made of military-grade nylon. It also features a strong arch support that helps fight foot fatigue. The Silverplus® antimicrobial technology provides odor protection, an important quality if you plan on doing some heavy work in your boots.

These insoles are perfect for those who wear work boots to the job everyday, but are suitable for any boot.

Cost
Super low price. No need feeling guilty with this investment. A super durable product for a steal.

Pros

• Good quality, very durable
• Fights foot fatigue
• Specifically made for all day comfort and support
• Low price

Cons

• Some people had issues with sizing.

Before you run out and buy yourself a pair, here are a few things to remember when buying and wearing insoles.

When shopping for insoles, remember, not all insoles are the same.  Ask yourself a few questions when looking for an insole.  Do you have any foot injuries or problems?  Do you have high, normal or low arches?  Do you have any pronation issues?

Most insoles have a “break in” in period.  It may take a short period of time to get used to wearing them.  Try wearing them for a few hours the first day and gradually build up to wearing them all day.

As a rule of thumb, insoles need to be replaced about as often as you replace your running shoes.  They last about 300- 500 miles or a year of everyday use.  However, results can vary and some quality insoles can last well over a year.  How often you replace them may vary depending on brand as well as how often and what you use your insoles for.  If you start noticing symptoms of foot fatigue or pain, most likely it’s time to for new insoles.

Above all, for the best advice about your foot and insoles, talk to your podiatrist or doctor to see which insole would work best for you.

Here’s What We Looked For When Choosing The Best Inserts And Insoles For Boots:

They Have To Work As Hard As You Do

When going through countless amounts of user feedback and recommendations, we came across common complaints of insoles that simply didn’t stand up to the heavy use of being utilized in a work or hiking boot. This is why we made sure to compile a list with the most durable and dependable insoles on the market today. When you’re reaching for an insole, it’s because you require more support, cushion, or protection. The last thing that you want is one more thing to worry about when you’re putting your boots through their paces. Let’s take a look at some of the other considerations we made when choosing our picks.

A Strong Heel

The heel is the epicenter of balance and control when it comes to the way your feet function and perform; it’s also where the heel bone and the ankle connect to the muscles in the calves. When evaluating the best insoles for boots, we took a close look at the support system found in the heels, and made sure that they received positive feedback from users that were remaining active for a large majority of the day. It’s easy to forget that our feet contain 33 joints and a total of 26 bones, and the heel does the work of keeping everything moving smoothly. So whether you’re hiking or working in your boots all day, a strong heel is the secret for success.

Reliable Arch Support

Our arches are composed of a small network of five bones, which connect the front of our foot with the back of our foot. If you will be on your feet all day or plan on high endurance activities, if your arches aren’t properly supported, you will have increased fatigue levels and sore feet. According to testers that needed additional arch support, selecting the right insole can make you feel like you are wearing a new pair of footwear and make less work out of strenuous activities. Our buying guide has plenty of insoles with the reliable arch support that will work best for you.

Something For Everyone

Selecting the right insoles is a personal preference that can vary significantly across users; this is why our options are as diverse as possible with all the information that you need to make your decision. For users that need a lot of cushioning for added comfort, to options that are among the most supportive insoles that you can find, there is something for everyone on our list. The key to achieving the comfort that you need is making a selection that is the best match for your needs.

Several Price Points

We know that selecting insoles can be quite confusing; especially when you realize just how many are on the market and how widely their prices can vary. This is why our research is geared towards providing our readers with the information they require to get the most value for their money. Not only does this ensure that you get what you pay for, but it also gives you the piece of mind knowing that you didn’t buy anymore insole than you need. Our focus was on managing pain, increasing comfort, and avoiding unnecessary expenses.

A Good Fit For Most Boots

While going over materials and support levels, it’s easy to overlook the simple fact that these insoles need to fit in your footwear. And when you’re talking about boots, depending on the footwear, there is limited room to work with when adding an insole. We provided selections that can be tailored to fit inside the most cramped of boots to give you the benefits that you need.

Important Things to Consider When Selecting Your Insoles & Inserts For Boots

While we have researched through a wide range of feedback and data when compiling our list, we understand that in order to truly get the most out of your new insoles or inserts, you must make a selection that makes sense for your activity level and how you will be using them. Below you will find some personal factors to take into consideration when making your choice. These insoles should be a smart investment and provide you with the most tailored amount of cushion and protection. In addition, our guide is provided with the goal in mind on helping you select your perfect match, and not simply going for the most expensive option.

Make Sure Your Arches Gets The Proper Support

If you’re experiencing a lot of pain and discomfort at the end of the day and don’t know why, take a look at the bottoms of your feet. It may be that you’re arches aren’t getting the support they need. If you have flattened or low arches, you’re going to need the highest levels of arch support offered. Our buying guide is jam packed with selections that take this into account. It’s crucial that your foot doesn’t flatten out when you step. This will keep pressure off of your heel and give you a lot more comfort that lasts longer. A simple self evaluation can help you identify your arch type and make the right selection.

Don’t Put Up With The Wrong Boot

While our guide is geared towards helping you make the proper selection that is right for you, it’s important to keep in mind that your footwear may be causing you significant problems. Some feedback indicated that there is a misconception that boots are typically uncomfortable and restrictive, when that simply isn’t the case. Choose a boot that matches your activity and gives your feet plenty of room to move. Everyone’s feet slightly swell after strenuous exercise or after a long day, so you’ll also want to make sure that you get the right size. Not the size that you are at the beginning of the day, or in the department store.

Evaluate Your Stance

Stand with your toes pointed forward and your feet slightly apart. Take a look at your stance and how much weight is being placed on each leg. There may be slight inward rolling, which is quite common. This will aid you in making the best selection for you. Make sure that your selection offers some sort of correcting to ensure that your steps and nice and even, helping your endurance levels and even slowly correcting the way you walk.

Don’t Give Up

We at Runnerclick.com place significant importance on matching our readers with the right equipment, accessories, and footwear for them. When we were evaluating feedback for insoles in general, we found that sometimes testers were discouraged by not finding the right one for them the first time around. If this happens to you, remember that it’s common and insoles can be tricky to properly match. After you’ve read up on the things to consider, take your time and choose those properties that matter to you, not flashy colors or gels. The right insole is out there, just because you don’t find it on your first go, doesn’t mean that you should stop looking.

Know About Plantar Fasciitis

If you have persistent heel pain, make sure to evaluate yourself for Plantar Fasciitis to ensure that you are selecting the right insoles for you. We have also included a guide to helping you along your way, the good news is that you can recover from it on your own with the right technique. Look out for the options that specifically mention Plantar Fasciitis in their description and you will have a strong first line of defense against the condition.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions that most runners encounter when making their decision. Hopefully, they will help you along your way when you are making your decision.

Q: How do I find the right size insole for my feet?

A: Most of these insoles run true to size, therefore just select your normal shoe size and go from there. To be sure before you insert them into you shoe, stand on them outside of your shoe to ensure that they cover your foot from heel to toe. This is also a great time to make sure that the heel is snug and secure. Another tip for a better fit is to remove your current insole and place the new one over it, trimming away any tiny differences that you come across.

Q: What’s the best method for selecting insoles that are better suited for standing on my feet all day?

A: There are a couple of recommendations that could help you. First, you want to make sure that you look for a heavy-duty option that is meant for tough usage and all day support. Second, select a different insole for your footwear at the end of the day for your downtime. Having separate insoles on all your footwear will ensure that you get maximum support even when you’re off the clock.

Q: How do I know when it’s time to replace my insole?

A: This can vary depending on usage and variety of your walking and running conditions. You can be your own best advocate and once you start to feel that they are losing a little of their support or not providing you with the same amount of cushioning, it’s time to replace them. The normal rule of thumb is to replace them about as often as you replace your footwear, but since some work boots can last for longer periods of time, you really need to make the call yourself.

Q: What’s the biggest advantage of gels versus foams?

A: It’s really more of a personal preference, but some testers report that gels have the advantage of providing them with more shock absorption, while foams give a good amount of cushioning. We have included options that have a nice combination of both, in case you wanted to try a mixture of both technologies.

This was our approach when selecting the right pair of insoles and inserts for boots. Remember that these types of insoles can bring great advantages to a wide range of discomfort levels as long as you make the right choice. We hope this guide provided you with all the information you need when making you choice. Thanks for following along with us, and keep running!

Here are some sources we used while conducting our research

It’s important to use a plethora of sources to ensure quality information. We like to utilize trusted clinical partners and manufactures when providing our readers with the most up-to-date statistics found in all our buying guides. We are also very interested in taking what everyday users have to say about specific products, and we perform our due diligence to make sure that quality research goes into every guide. Here are some sources which helped us with this guide: